PADUCAH — Storms can remind people of past traumas when it comes to active weather. But if you have storm-related anxiety, there are ways to combat it.
Therapist Craig Keene said it can be difficult for people in the area, and the trauma affects people of all ages and from all walks of life.
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Craig Keene is a therapist at Four Rivers Behavioral Health.
But when it comes to overcoming those feelings, it’s all about being prepared and making sure you have everything you need.
Christina Wilson has lived in Mayfield for more than twenty years. She said she feels uneasy about the coming storm but is preparing.
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Christina Wilson has lived in Mayfield, Kentucky for over twenty years.
“Pretty nervous,” Wilson said, describing her current emotional state. “We’re going to the store now to get stuff in case the power goes out: flashlights, baby wipes, water, that kind of thing.”
Preparation is key when it comes to calming your anxiety because it focuses on what you can control in unpredictable circumstances.
Not only that, staying informed about incoming weather systems can be overwhelming.
So therapist Craig Keene of Four Rivers Behavioral Health said: Trust your gut.
“It will be difficult to be aware of the weather, but if you find yourself looking at it and it causes too much anxiety, trust your own body, trust your emotions, and if you find it causes too much anxiety causes, and trust yourself,” Keene said.
As for current and future weather patterns, Wilson said preparation is her first priority.
“Stay safe,” Wilson said. “Make sure everyone you know and care about is safe and protected, and don’t worry about it. Make sure you have the things you need. And know that people will help if something happens.”
Keene also said to take your emotions into account. Don’t be judgmental about your anxious thoughts, just acknowledge them. Then rethink what you can control.
Other advice? Drink something warm or cold to comfort your body, or use a fidget toy.